Herpes Esophagitis
Herpes esophagitis is a viral infection of the
esophagus, caused by the herpes simplex
virus – the same virus that causes cold
sores or fever blisters.
Symptoms of Herpes Esophagitis
The symptoms of herpes esophagitis are:
- Swallowing difficulty
- Pain
- Feeling that food is stuck in the throat
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
Diagnosis
Your doctor will look for the following signs of herpes esophagitis:
- Blisters or ulcers in the esophagus
- Biopsy or tissue sample positive for herpes simplex infection
Cause of Herpes Esophagitis
Herpes esophagitis is caused by an opportunistic infection
by the herpes simplex virus. It is called an opportunistic infection
because it only develops if the body’s immune system is
already overwhelmed or weakened by another illness.
Herpes Esophagitis Treatment
Treatments for herpes esophagitis include oral or intravenous
administration of antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, foscarnet
or vidarabine.
